Archives for November 2014

The Christmas Advent series is available in print or ebook on Amazon. This series looks at the Christmas Story from the perspective of some of those involved so long ago. Each week focuses on a different person and perspective as we examine the text and then explore ways we might apply what we’ve learned to our own lives.

This series can be used over four or five weeks and includes a weekly reading of Scripture, a devotional thought, questions to ponder and a variety of family activities. Contents

Christmas from Mary’s Perspective

Christmas from Joseph’s Perspective

Christmas from the Shepherds’ Perspective

Christmas from the Magi’s Perspective

Christmas from Simeon & Anna’s Perspective

My prayer is that the Lord would use this study to help refocus your heart this Christmas season on Christ Jesus and foster an attitude of worship, gratitude and giving to others.

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

1440 minutes. 24 hours. 1 day.

Although we all have those “have to” and “must do” responsibilities, we still have choices on how we spend our moments in the day.

Some days busyness is a choice I make, when I really do have options on how much I allow on the calendar.

Some days it is a spirit of perfectionism or people pleasing driving my decisions, or I feel “guilty” if I’m not being “productive”.

God knows the responsibilities on my plate. He knows when I’m seeking approval from someone or something other than Him. When I commit and entrust my day to His care, He will order my moments and give me the rest and peace I need.

Some days I just need to give myself permission to relax and enjoy the day that the Lord has made.…continue reading

Sometimes I have those moments or days when my soul is overwhelmed and I can’t seem to settle down…

Because of the Lord’s faithful love we do not perish, for His mercies never end. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness! I say: the Lord is my portion, therefore I will put my hope in Him. —Lamentations 3:22-23

What is consuming you today?

What is heavy upon your heart and mind?

Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us. Selah —Psalm 62:8.

What does this verse instruct us to do? When?

What attribute of God do you find in this verse?

The word for pour out in this verse is the Hebrew, sapak meaning to spill forth, to gush, to pour out oneself.

Psalm 62:8 is one of my favorite Get Real! verses of Scripture. There is no pretense. I don’t have to try to cover up, fix up, look good, act right or get it all together before I come to the Lord. He meets me right where I am! I can unload my burdens and tell Him exactly how I’m feeling and what I’m thinking and why I’m frustrated, angry, disappointed, overwhelmed, discouraged and on and on. And He hears my cry. He comforts and encourages me. He is my refuge. He stills my soul and calms me down.

Spend some time pouring out your heart to the Lord. Get it off your chest! Leave it at His feet and walk away filled with His peace, joy and love. KNOW that His love is great. His love is steadfast and faithful. And He is in control of all things.

When your soul is overwhelmed and can’t seem to settle down, get still before the Lord.